– If you live on a multi-story home, you have probably seen the space under a set stairs and thought that it could look and function better. A closet is an excellent solution. You can also make your home more appealing by adding hardwood built-ins to transform formerly unattractive architectural spaces.
“Today’s homeowners look on such unused square footage as a wasted resource,”Linda Jovanovich, American Hardwood Information Center www.hardwoodinfo.com. “Solid hardwood built-ins not only provide the customization needed in an awkwardly configured space, but also bring the warmth and character of natural wood to a gloomy, uninviting spot.”
“If you do it right, an under-stairs hardwood built-in becomes a combination of a fine piece of furniture and a strong, reliable workhorse that should last a long time and be a sound investment,” says Laura Bohn, a New York interior designer. “Make sure that whatever you install addresses some real requirement in your daily life. Storage is usually a good choice, but think about what kind you need most – for wine, maybe, or a collection of vintage LP records. Functionality never goes out of style, so make sure it works for you.”
“No matter how thoughtfully designed, any type of under-stairs hardwood built-in should be well-made and carefully installed,”Melissa Morgan, a San Antonio-based interior designer at M Interiors, advises. “And don’t forget the details. Make sure moldings, trims, and other decorative elements match existing millwork. Hinges, handles, or any other hardware should be chosen for beauty and stylistic appropriateness as well as functionality and durability.”
Find inspiration online, in magazines and books. Many staircases are built against walls. Matthew Kerr, an architect at SOK Design Studio in Sandpoint (Idaho), took advantage of this by installing a fan-shaped windows under the stairs to create natural light. The simple built-in daybed he designed was a twin-length mattress on a hardwood base and pullout drawers. It looked like a comfortable bunk on an old sailing ship. The window makes it feel spacious and light, even though it is tiny. This creates a wonderful place to relax, read, nap, or host overnight guests.
Visit www.hardwoodinfo.comFor more information on under-stairs built ins, and other applications and products made with American hardwoods, click here.
